Empire & Industry

The Sword

Small Sword

Description:

In the early 17th century a new method of fence was developed in France requiring a much shorter sword. As a result smaller versions of the rapier began to be worn with civilian dress all over Europe. The small sword became an essential part of the dress of a gentleman, during the 18th century, gradually becoming a piece of costume jewellery and as the century progressed the hilt of the small sword became increasingly impractical and more stylised.